Iraq launches a maritime route that shortens transport time between three countries via Basra.
Iraq launches a maritime route that shortens transport time between three countries via Basra.
2025-12-13 00:43
Shafaq News – Basra
On Saturday, Basra is preparing to host a new maritime transport service linking Umm Qasr port with Rashid port in Dubai, as part of an advanced logistics route expected to bring about a shift in reducing time and cost between countries in the region.
An informed source told Shafaq News Agency that “the new service will rely on the $50 million DP World Express roll-on/roll-off vessel, which is capable of accommodating 145 trailers per trip,” indicating that “the trip will shorten the 10-day journey between the UAE, Turkey and Oman to just 36 hours via the port of Umm Qasr.”
He added that “the date for the first flight will be the 17th of this month.”
For its part, the General Company for Iraqi Ports welcomed the launch of the new maritime line. The company’s Director General, Dr. Eng. Farhan Al-Fartousi, said that “the new service represents an important addition to the capabilities of Iraqi ports in the field of handling (Ro-Ro) vehicles and developing fast maritime transport options.”
Al-Fartousi added, during his interview with Shafaq News Agency, that “the line will contribute to reducing reliance on land transport, speeding up the arrival of goods, and providing direct solutions for transporting trailers with driver escorts.”
According to Al-Fartousi, the company is working on preparing the operational requirements at Umm Qasr port to ensure the smooth flow of service, noting that “the new line will support bilateral trade between Iraq and the UAE, raise the efficiency of regional supply chains, and enhance the competitiveness of Iraqi ports.”
shafaq.com
